Super agers are defined as people who defy aging stereotypes by engaging in energetic activities as they get older. Whether it’s exercising daily, adding on new hobbies, or participating in work that requires heavy lifting, super agers live outside of the constraints of what is typically thought people their age can do.
Take Douglass Talbot for example. Now in his 80s, he is living outside the box by engaging in a variety of activities with his wife, Linda, 72, as they continue to maintain an active lifestyle. So active in fact that not that many years ago they ran a bustling gift shop in downtown Detroit called “Little Things.”
The couple enjoys visiting art exhibits and arts events together. “Linda is a fiber artist,” Douglass said. “So, we enjoy visiting art galleries, attending concerts, plays and just being home enjoying each other’s company as best friends.”
The artistic couple takes pride in bringing their eye for design and gracious living to their various homes - spaces they’ve improved in Rosedale Park, on the riverfront, and now, while beautifying a home in Grosse Pointe.
The home’s decor includes displays of art and photos, some original works. “Photography has always been a passion of mine. I focus most on landscapes, flowers, birds and winter themes. Getting a great shot is so satisfying,” he said. “In the summer I enjoy working in my flower beds.”
After retiring, both Douglass and Linda joined The Helm, a place for seniors to participate in a range of activities, from exercise rooms to balancing and mobility classes. They still participate in exercise and balance classes twice a week.
“Throughout my life I’ve tried to remain physically fit and in my later years I was encouraged by my wife, Linda, and my children, Leslie and Kim, who were always fitness nuts, to take care of myself,” Douglass said. “During my early years I was always physically active, playing basketball and in high school I ran track, the half mile and the two mile. At the age of 23 I was drafted into the Army which kept me in good physical condition.”
With the help of family, friends, and doctors at the Detroit Medical Center, Douglass says he has a stable routine that supports a stable weight.
“I consider myself very lucky to have received so much love over my entire life,” Douglass said. “All in all, life has been very good!”